North Carolina’s Ocean Piers

Jennette’s Pier on the Outer Banks

North Carolina is blessed with 300 miles of pristine coastline, where fishing and many other water-based activities are world-class. The possibilities are enhanced by more than a dozen different piers dotting the coast from north to south, where fishing and much more await you year-round.

Thanks to North Carolina’s coastline being so close to the fabled waters of the Gulf Stream, pier fishing provides great access to the Atlantic Ocean’s coastal fish. Popular pier amenities typically include tackle shops, rentals, bait, lighting for night fishing, special Spanish mackerel fishing spots, varied dining and much more depending on the specific pier.

Anglers age 16 or older who want to recreationally fish in any water designated as coastal or joint waters of North Carolina (including public fishing piers) must have a North Carolina Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL). Licenses can be purchased online or from license agents. Be sure to check if your chosen pier carries a blanket license that’s including in your pier fishing pass price. License types and fees vary.

From north to south, here’s a roundup of North Carolina’s ocean piers:

Outer Banks

Avalon Fishing PierKill Devil Hills
Avalon Pier is 696 feet long and, like most North Carolina piers, features a full tackle shop, bait, rentals and snacks. Its irreverent website is packed with information about fishing and more at the popular pier.

Nags Head Fishing PierNags Head
At 750 feet, Nags Head Fishing Pier is one of the state’s oldest piers. With pretty ocean views, Pier House Restaurant – “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” – is definitely a highlight.

Jennette’s PierNags Head
Originally built way back in 1939, Jennette’s Pier was rebuilt after Hurricane Isabel. The groundbreaking concrete structure is 1,000 feet long and includes an outpost of the North Carolina Aquariums network, with aquariums, displays, programs, fishing classes and more.

Outer Banks Fishing PierNags Head
Fishing Unlimited’s 600-foot pier is the closest pier to fabled Oregon Inlet. Along with a full tackle shop, there’s a popular and tasty oceanfront grill.

Avon Fishing PierAvon
Also situated on Hatteras Island, Avon Fishing Pier is about 600 feet long. Unique features for this classic pier include a 18-hole natural grass miniature golf course and Haoles, a sushi and sake restaurant and bar.

Topsail Area

Surf City PierSurf City
Originally built in 1948 and owned by the Lore family since 1973, 937-foot Surf City Pier is better than ever with full fishing service, Pier Grill, and a great “Pier Kids” program that teaches children about fishing and more.